Project Guide
Beyond the Diploma Project Guide
Project Description
11th graders will collaborate in teams to interview alumni, analyze real-world career journeys, and present insights on navigating the transition from college to career. This guide outlines objectives, timelines, roles, and deliverables to ensure a meaningful, skill-rich experience.
Project Objectives
- Develop thoughtful, open-ended interview questions that probe career motivations and challenges.
- Conduct professional interviews and accurately record alumni insights.
- Analyze narratives to identify common themes, decision points, and advice for current students.
- Synthesize findings into a clear, engaging presentation aimed at peers.
- Reflect on personal career aspirations and growth strategies.
Components & Materials
- Alumni Interview Framework (slide deck)
- Story Analysis Circles (activity protocol)
- Presentation Insight Rubric (assessment rubric)
- Key Takeaway Mingle (cool-down activity)
Timeline & Session Breakdown (Each session: 270 minutes)
Session 1: Kick-off & Planning
- Introduce project scope and objectives.
- Form teams of 4–5 and assign roles (see Roles & Responsibilities).
- Review the Alumni Interview Framework and brainstorm interview questions.
- Finalize question set and schedule interviews with alumni.
Group Norms & Commitments:
Session 2: Conducting Interviews
- Brief refresher on professional etiquette and note-taking strategies.
- Conduct live or virtual interviews with alumni, ensuring all voices in your team take turns asking questions.
- Record responses (audio/video/transcript) and highlight key quotes.
Interview Summary Template:
Session 3: Story Analysis & Synthesis
- Engage in Story Analysis Circles to discuss each interview transcript.
- Identify recurring themes (e.g., challenges, turning points, support networks).
- Collate top 5 insights and draft narrative segments for your presentation.
Insight Mapping Chart:
Session 4: Presentation Development
- Outline your slide deck structure: Introduction, Alumni Stories, Themes & Advice, Personal Reflection, Q&A.
- Design slides, incorporating quotes, visuals, and data from analyses.
- Peer-review slide drafts using the Presentation Insight Rubric.
Slide Feedback Notes:
Session 5: Final Presentation & Reflection
- Deliver presentations to classmates; use slide timer and Q&A protocols.
- Class scores each team via the Presentation Insight Rubric.
- Wrap up with the Key Takeaway Mingle to share individual reflections.
Reflection Prompt: What surprised you most about the alumni journeys, and how might this influence your own path?
Roles & Responsibilities
- Project Manager: Keeps the team on schedule, books interviews, and tracks deliverables.
- Interview Coordinator: Leads question development, assigns speaking turns, and ensures recordings.
- Data Analyst: Transcribes interviews, highlights themes, and maintains the insight chart.
- Design Lead: Crafts slide visuals, integrates quotes, and formats the presentation.
- Presenter(s): Delivers the narrative, handles Q&A, and manages slide timing.
Teams may rotate roles between sessions to build all skill areas.
Deliverables & Assessment
- Final interview question list (graded for depth and relevance).
- Complete interview summaries/transcripts (graded for accuracy).
- Insight mapping chart with top 5 themes (graded for critical thinking).
- Slide deck presentation (graded via Presentation Insight Rubric).
- Individual reflection shared in mingling activity (graded for personal connection).
Extension & Reflection
- Invite alumni back for a panel Q&A.
- Publish key findings in a school newsletter or blog.
- Create a resource booklet for underclassmen embarking on college pathways.
Remember: Beyond this project, the curiosity and communication skills you hone will serve you in college, career, and life. Good luck!
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Project Guide
Beyond the Diploma Project Guide
Project Description
11th graders will collaborate in teams to interview alumni, analyze real-world career journeys, and present insights on navigating the transition from college to career. This guide outlines objectives, timelines, roles, and deliverables to ensure a meaningful, skill-rich experience.
Project Objectives
- Develop thoughtful, open-ended interview questions that probe career motivations and challenges.
- Conduct professional interviews and accurately record alumni insights.
- Analyze narratives to identify common themes, decision points, and advice for current students.
- Synthesize findings into a clear, engaging presentation aimed at peers.
- Reflect on personal career aspirations and growth strategies.
Components & Materials
- Alumni Interview Framework (slide deck)
- Story Analysis Circles (activity protocol)
- Presentation Insight Rubric (assessment rubric)
- Key Takeaway Mingle (cool-down activity)
Timeline & Session Breakdown (Each session: 270 minutes)
Session 1: Kick-off & Planning
- Introduce project scope and objectives.
- Form teams of 4–5 and assign roles (see Roles & Responsibilities).
- Review the Alumni Interview Framework and brainstorm interview questions.
- Finalize question set and schedule interviews with alumni.
Group Norms & Commitments:
Session 2: Conducting Interviews
- Brief refresher on professional etiquette and note-taking strategies.
- Conduct live or virtual interviews with alumni, ensuring all voices in your team take turns asking questions.
- Record responses (audio/video/transcript) and highlight key quotes.
Interview Summary Template:
Session 3: Story Analysis & Synthesis
- Engage in Story Analysis Circles to discuss each interview transcript.
- Identify recurring themes (e.g., challenges, turning points, support networks).
- Collate top 5 insights and draft narrative segments for your presentation.
Insight Mapping Chart:
Session 4: Presentation Development
- Outline your slide deck structure: Introduction, Alumni Stories, Themes & Advice, Personal Reflection, Q&A.
- Design slides, incorporating quotes, visuals, and data from analyses.
- Peer-review slide drafts using the Presentation Insight Rubric.
Slide Feedback Notes:
Session 5: Final Presentation & Reflection
- Deliver presentations to classmates; use slide timer and Q&A protocols.
- Class scores each team via the Presentation Insight Rubric.
- Wrap up with the Key Takeaway Mingle to share individual reflections.
Reflection Prompt: What surprised you most about the alumni journeys, and how might this influence your own path?
Roles & Responsibilities
- Project Manager: Keeps the team on schedule, books interviews, and tracks deliverables.
- Interview Coordinator: Leads question development, assigns speaking turns, and ensures recordings.
- Data Analyst: Transcribes interviews, highlights themes, and maintains the insight chart.
- Design Lead: Crafts slide visuals, integrates quotes, and formats the presentation.
- Presenter(s): Delivers the narrative, handles Q&A, and manages slide timing.
Teams may rotate roles between sessions to build all skill areas.
Deliverables & Assessment
- Final interview question list (graded for depth and relevance).
- Complete interview summaries/transcripts (graded for accuracy).
- Insight mapping chart with top 5 themes (graded for critical thinking).
- Slide deck presentation (graded via Presentation Insight Rubric).
- Individual reflection shared in mingling activity (graded for personal connection).
Extension & Reflection
- Invite alumni back for a panel Q&A.
- Publish key findings in a school newsletter or blog.
- Create a resource booklet for underclassmen embarking on college pathways.
Remember: Beyond this project, the curiosity and communication skills you hone will serve you in college, career, and life. Good luck!
Slide Deck
Alumni Interview Framework
A step-by-step guide to prepare, conduct, and record insightful interviews with alumni.
Welcome the class and introduce the Alumni Interview Framework slide deck. Explain that this framework will guide students through each phase of preparing and conducting alumni interviews.
Purpose & Objectives
• Gather firsthand insights on career journeys and decision points
• Identify themes and advice relevant to current students
• Practice professional communication and listening skills
• Develop research, analysis, and presentation capabilities
Highlight why we’re doing these interviews and what students will accomplish. Emphasize alignment with career readiness standards and real-world communication skills.
Interview Preparation
• Research the alumnus’s background (major, industry, role)
• Review your team’s project objectives
• Brainstorm and refine open-ended questions
• Assign roles: lead questioner, notetaker, time-keeper
Walk through the preparation phase. Stress the importance of background research on each alumnus to ask tailored questions.
Sample Questions
• “What motivated you to choose your college major?”
• “Describe a challenge you faced early in your career and how you overcame it.”
• “Which skills from high school or college proved most valuable on the job?”
• “What advice would you give your younger self starting out?”
• Follow-up: “Can you share a specific example?”
Explain how to craft thoughtful, probing questions. Provide examples to spark ideas.
Professional Etiquette
• Dress appropriately (business casual recommended)
• Begin with a polite greeting and thank-you
• Maintain eye contact and active listening
• Use clear, respectful language and tone
• Send a thank-you note within 24 hours
Emphasize professionalism and respectful interaction. Share tips on tone, dress, and follow-up etiquette.
Recording & Note-Taking
• Ask alumnus for audio/video recording consent
• Test recording device (phone, tablet, recorder) in advance
• Take brief written notes alongside the recording
• Highlight key quotes or timestamps for later reference
• Back up recordings immediately
Cover best practices for recording and note-taking. Remind students to always ask for permission before recording.
Scheduling & Logistics
• Use a shared scheduling template (date, time, platform)
• Send a confirmation email with interview details
• Include meeting link or location address
• Provide an agenda and list of topics to the alumnus
• Set reminders for both team and interviewee
Provide guidance on scheduling interviews and managing logistics. Suggest using a shared calendar or spreadsheet.
Next Steps
• Finalize your interview question list
• Assign team roles and rehearse your opening
• Schedule interviews with your assigned alumni
• Prepare recording tools and consent forms
• Review this framework before each interview
Summarize the next steps and assign actionable tasks. Encourage teams to finalize questions and practice before the interview.
Activity
Story Analysis Circles
Purpose: In small groups, debrief alumni interviews to identify common themes, decision points, and key advice. Collaboratively document insights that will inform your presentation.
Time: 60 minutes
Group Size: 3–4 students per circle
Materials:
- Printed or digital transcripts of your team’s alumni interviews
- Insight Mapping Chart (see below)
- Sticky notes or digital comment tools
Roles (rotate each round)
- Facilitator: Keeps the discussion on track and invites quieter voices to share.
- Note-Taker: Records themes, quotes, and key ideas on the chart.
- Time-Keeper: Ensures each step follows the time allotment.
- Reporter: Shares your group’s findings in the full-class debrief.
Protocol Steps
- Silent Review (5 minutes)
Each member reads through one transcript, highlighting compelling quotes and noting initial impressions. - Round-Robin Summaries (8 minutes)
In turn, each student gives a 1–2 minute summary of their transcript’s most striking story or insight. Facilitator ensures equal turn-taking. - Identify Recurring Themes (12 minutes)
Discuss as a group: What ideas, challenges, or turning points appeared across interviews? List up to 8 themes on your Insight Mapping Chart. - Evidence & Impact (10 minutes)
For each theme, the Note-Taker records:
| Theme | Representative Quote | Why It Matters | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | “_____________________________” | _____________________________ | |
| 2. | “_____________________________” | _____________________________ | |
| 3. | “_____________________________” | _____________________________ | |
| 4. | “_____________________________” | _____________________________ | |
| 5. | “_____________________________” | _____________________________ |
- Rank & Refine (8 minutes)
Use dot stickers or digital markers to vote on the top 3 themes that offer the richest insights for your class. Circle your top choice. - Group Reflection (10 minutes)
Individually respond to:
- Which theme surprised you most and why?
- How might this theme shape the advice you share in your final presentation?
- Report Out (7 minutes)
The Reporter summarizes your group’s top themes and key quote for the whole class. Be prepared to answer questions.
Next Steps: Incorporate your group’s top themes and quotes into your team’s presentation outline. Check that each major insight is supported by alumni words and clear explanations.
Rubric
Presentation Insight Rubric
Use this rubric to assess team presentations on alumni insights. Score each criterion from 1 (Beginning) to 4 (Exemplary).
| Criterion | Exemplary (4) | Proficient (3) | Developing (2) | Beginning (1) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Depth & Clarity of Insights | Demonstrates deep analysis of multiple themes; insights are clear, nuanced, and insightful. | Covers key themes with clear explanations; analysis shows sound understanding. | Identifies some relevant themes but explanations lack depth or clarity. | Insights are superficial, unclear, or omit major themes. |
| Evidence & Support | Seamlessly integrates multiple direct quotes, data points, and examples to reinforce each insight. | Uses appropriate quotes or examples to support most insights. | Provides some evidence but it’s inconsistently applied or loosely connected to insights. | Little or no evidence; claims are unsupported or unrelated. |
| Presentation Delivery | Speaks clearly and confidently; excellent pacing, eye contact, and engagement; handles Q&A expertly. | Clear and organized delivery; maintains audience interest; answers questions adequately. | Delivery is uneven or hesitant; limited audience engagement; Q&A responses are incomplete. | Mumbles or reads slides; struggles to engage audience; cannot respond to questions. |
| Visual Design & Organization | Slides are highly polished and visually balanced; headings and visuals enhance understanding; layout is consistent and professional. | Slides are well organized and readable; visuals support content; minor inconsistencies in design. | Slides are somewhat cluttered or inconsistent; visuals are occasionally unclear or irrelevant. | Slides lack organization or readability; visuals are missing, distracting, or absent. |
| Reflection & Relevance | Integrates thoughtful personal reflection; clearly connects alumni insights to students’ own goals and future planning. | Includes personal reflection and relates themes to goals, though with limited depth. | Reflection is minimal or superficial; connections to personal goals are only implied. | No personal reflection or relevance; fails to connect insights to student experience. |
Cool Down
Key Takeaway Mingle
Purpose: Offer a quick, interactive reflection where students share and celebrate one key insight from the project before dismissing class.
Time: 10–15 minutes
Materials:
- Index cards or sticky notes (one per student)
- Pens or markers
- Wall space or a large poster sheet
- Dot stickers (optional)
Activity Steps
- Write Your Takeaway (3 minutes)
Each student writes one memorable insight or piece of advice from your alumni interviews on an index card or sticky note. Encourage brevity and specificity (e.g., “Always ask for feedback, even when it feels uncomfortable”). - Mingle & Share (3 minutes)
Students stand up and mingle with 2–3 classmates. In each pairing, they exchange takeaways and briefly explain why they chose it. Rotate after ~1 minute. - Post & Gallery Walk (3 minutes)
Students return their cards to the wall or poster sheet, clustering similar insights together. If using dot stickers, each student places a dot on the card that resonated most with them. - Whole-Class Debrief (2–3 minutes)
Facilitator invites volunteers to share: Which cluster had the most dots? Was there a surprising insight? How might these takeaways guide your own future steps?
Reflection Prompt
- Which one takeaway stood out to you today and why?
Next Steps: Collect the clustered cards and keep them posted as a visual reminder of alumni wisdom and peer reflections.